Quang is a former South Vietnamese soldier and helicopter pilot who resides in a US refugee camp after the fall of Saigon. He focuses intensely on his past, driving across America to find a way back to his family in Vietnam. His dedication to his former life conflicts directly with his immediate reality and his growing attraction to Tong.

Tong is an independent, pragmatic Vietnamese refugee who secures passage to the United States for herself and her mother. She actively works to assimilate into American culture to find a fresh start. She builds emotional walls to protect herself from the trauma of losing her home and brother, avoiding traditional romantic attachments until she meets Quang.

Nhan is Quang’s close friend who accompanies him on a cross-country trip. He provides a grounded perspective against Quang's dangerous and idealistic plans. Nhan keenly observes their new reality as immigrants in America and frequently challenges Quang to view their situation objectively.

Huong is Tong's mother, who strongly resists assimilating into American culture. She desperately wishes to return to Vietnam to reunite with her son. Though she frequently argues with Tong over modern sensibilities, she possesses a deep protective instinct for her daughter.

Bobby is an American soldier stationed at Fort Chaffee who takes an immediate liking to Tong. He attempts to court her by learning broken Vietnamese and offering her better food. He embodies the linguistic and cultural barriers between the American hosts and the Vietnamese refugees.

The Playwright serves as the narrator and framing device for the story. He represents the real-life author, Qui Nguyen. He interjects to contextualize the narrative and eventually interviews an older version of Quang to understand his parents' history.

The Redneck Biker is a hostile American who attacks Quang and Nhan during their road trip. He represents the anti-immigrant and racist sentiments present in portions of the United States.

Hippie Dude is an American who strongly opposed the Vietnam War. He believes he deserves thanks for his anti-war protests, which deeply offends Quang by dismissing the lived trauma of Vietnamese soldiers.

Khue is Tong's brother. He decides to stay in Vietnam as Saigon falls because he refuses to leave his girlfriend behind. His absence weighs heavily on both Tong and Huong, shaping their distinct approaches to life in America.

Giai is a South Vietnamese man desperately in love with Tong. He repeatedly asks for her hand in marriage, offering her material comforts. He later appears in Tong's guilt-driven nightmares.

Thu is Quang's wife in Vietnam. She cares for their young children and struggles with the realities of Quang's prolonged military absences. She is left behind when the city falls.

Flower Girl is an American who travels the country with Hippie Dude. She embraces the counterculture movement and briefly connects with Nhan.